England’s largest festival of history and culture, Heritage Open Days is back for 2026, from 11 – 20 September. Presented by the National Trust, supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and run by thousands of local organisations and volunteers, Heritage Open Days gives everyone the opportunity to enjoy free access to experiences and events across England.
The festival brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history. Each year places across the country, including many National Trusts sites, throw open their doors to give people the chance to explore, see hidden places and try new experiences for free.
This year’s theme is Everyday Histories, exploring daily working life through the ages. The butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker – what did your ancestors do, and what was their daily life like?
Here’s a round-up of the best National Trust events happening near you for Heritage Open Days:
Belton Estate, Grantham, Lincolnshire
Belton’s Community Festival is back on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September, offering free entry to enjoy the full estate including the mansion, gardens, parkland and the National Trust’s largest outdoor adventure playground, alongside a celebration of the local community. The weekend will feature a variety of music, dance and circus performances; stalls from local makers and traders; displays from charities and community groups; food vendors and more. The festival is sponsored by LNER, Grantham Town Council, Belton Woods and Allison Homes and will also offer the chance to explore the estate with a programme of free guided walks. Find out more on Belton’s Facebook or Instagram pages or at nationaltrust.org.uk/Belton.
Grantham House, Grantham, Lincolnshire
Urban oasis Grantham House offers free entry throughout the year to enjoy its stunning walled garden, lawns and meadow, as well as a cosy tearoom and second-hand bookshop. For Heritage Open Days, special tours are being offered on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, taking in the building and gardens. Guided History Talks will explore the story and heritage of the property as well as offering the chance to venture upstairs to parts of the building not normally open to the public, while tours of the beautiful gardens will be led by one of the expert Grantham House gardening volunteers. Garden tours will be taking place at 12pm and 2pm on both days and do not require booking. However, places should be reserved online for the 11am and 1pm Guided History Talks, at nationaltrust.org.uk/Grantham.
Clumber Park, Worksop, Nottinghamshire
Clumber Park will offer free admission on Friday 18 September as part of Heritage Open Days. This year’s Everyday Histories theme will shine a light on the ordinary people who helped create and care for this magnificent former ducal estate. Visitors can meet costumed interpreters portraying housekeepers, stableboys, chauffeurs and gardeners, hear a programme of 30-minute talks exploring Clumber’s history, and delve into historic archives with the University of Nottingham’s Manuscripts and Special Collections Department. No booking required. Full details can be found on the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark
The Workhouse & Infirmary, Southwell, Nottinghamshire
The Workhouse & Infirmary in Southwell will offer free admission on Friday 11, Saturday 12, Friday 18 and Saturday 19 September. Visitors can explore one of the country’s best-preserved workhouses and discover more than 200 years of history, including changing attitudes towards poverty and care. Mice dioramas, secret sundials, candlelit corners and striking architecture will bring the site’s everyday stories to life. No booking required. Full details can be found on the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/theworkhouse
Mr Straw’s House, Worksop, Nottinghamshire
Mr Straw’s House in Worksop will offer free entry on Saturday 12 September, with visitors invited to discover the stories of this remarkable 1920s family home. There will also be a free 4.5-mile family walk along the Chesterfield Canal, led by volunteers and exploring the canal’s 250-year history and its role in Worksop. Children can take part in a free canal spotter trail. Booking is advised for both the house and canal walk at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mrstrawshouse or by calling 0345 249 1895.
Gunby Estate Hall and Gardens, Spilsby, Lincolnshire
Step into history and explore the charm of Gunby Estate, Hall and Gardens during Heritage Open Days on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September. This nationwide celebration of England’s rich heritage offers a rare opportunity to enjoy special places with free admission. Visitors can wander through the house, stroll the gardens, and discover the Orchard Gallery, all at no cost.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy Makers stalls featuring local food and handcrafted goods, alongside a packed programme of entertainment. Saturday will see performances from the Skegness and East Coast Steampunk group, including cane duelling and the colourful Order of the Parasols, while Sunday features live music from The Full Fathom Five Tea Shanty Band at 12.30pm and vintage jazz duo Nowhere Fast at 1.30pm.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing day out, Gunby offers the perfect setting to connect with the past and enjoy the present. Open daily from 10am to 4pm. No booking required.
For more details, visit Heritage Open Days | National Trust or contact the team at 01754 890102 / gunbyhall@nationaltrust.org.uk
Tattershall Castle, Lincolnshire
On Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September, as part of the nationwide Heritage Open Days celebration, the castle opens its doors to all. From 10.30am to 4.30pm, visitors can explore the striking medieval architecture and uncover over 800 years of history. Once a proud symbol of power, later left to ruin, and now lovingly restored, Tattershall Castle stands as a testament to resilience and care.
Whether you’re drawn by the grandeur of its great tower or the quiet charm of its moats and gardens, there’s something here for everyone.
Families can enjoy traditional lawn games and the chance to step back in time with medieval dressing up in the Tower. Guided Tours are available from 11am – 12 noon, followed by an Archaeology ‘show and tell’ from 12 noon – 1pm, making it a perfect day out for all ages.
No booking is required – just turn up and step into the past.
For more information visit: Heritage Open Days at Tattershall Castle | National Trust
Image credits: Clumber Park by Steve Bradley
Posted on 07 September 2026
